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Business seminar to empower KZN entrepreneurs

Location: News

Business seminar to empower KZN entrepreneurs

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) in collaboration with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs (KZN EDTEA) will on Tuesday host the eThekwini Business Seminar at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

According to the dtic, this event is specifically designed to provide valuable information and insights on funding opportunities within the agencies of the dtic and KZN EDTEA.

With a primary focus on supporting emerging and disadvantaged businesses, the eThekwini Business Seminar aims to equip local entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in today's competitive business landscape.

Speakers at the seminar will include the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Nomalugelo Gina, the KZN EDTEA Member of Executive Committee (MEC), Siboniso Duma and eThekwini Executive Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

Their collective expertise and commitment to driving economic growth will undoubtedly contribute to the success of this event.

Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina explains that the eThekwini Business Seminar seeks to attract a diverse audience including local businessmen, representatives from various state entities and agencies of both the dtic and KZN EDTEA.

“We seek to foster knowledge sharing, collaboration, and partnership opportunities, to educate emerging and disadvantaged businesses about the range of funding opportunities available within the dtic and the KZN EDTEA, to facilitate knowledge sharing and to create a platform for meaningful interactions between state entities and local businesses,” Gina said.

The Deputy Minister said the purpose of the seminar is to enable entrepreneurs to leverage funding support packages for their identified projects and to facilitate networking and relationship-building between local businesses and state entities to promote collaboration and foster economic growth. 

She said the forum presents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to not only gain valuable insights into funding instruments within the agencies of the dtic and KZN EDTEA but also to forge meaningful connections with state entities and fellow business leaders. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 08/25/2023 - 08:58

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BRICS nations urged to build structures to prepare for future pandemics

Location: News

BRICS nations urged to build structures to prepare for future pandemics

BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) member states have been urged to solidify efforts to promote the use of digital health technologies to strengthen sharing of information that may be useful for pandemic preparedness, prevention and response (PPPR) between the nations. 

“At a country level, there is a commitment to develop and implement legislative measures for PPPR,” said Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla. 

“This is borne out of the devastating experience the world went through with the outbreak of COVID-19.”

Phaahla was speaking on Thursday at the BRICS Business Council SA Chapter on PPPR for Health Security: Closing the Gap in Preparation for Future Pandemics in Sandton, Johannesburg. 

The three-day BRICS Summit led by bloc leaders of emerging economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – wrapped up on Thursday. 

The Minister told the delegates that the COVID-19 outbreak caught the world off guard in terms of preparedness, causing major economic shock. 

“The experience during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted weaknesses in health systems while at the same time taught us that international collaboration and partnerships offered important benefits for all of humankind and ensured that ‘no one is left behind’. 

“Any health emergency is not to be over until we ensure that everyone is safe, so it is imperative that we are fully prepared to prevent and rapidly respond to any future global pandemic.”

He acknowledged that South Africa, like many low- and middle-income countries, faces inadequate expertise and capacity in epidemiology and surveillance, health economics, governance and community participation in times of health emergencies. 

“That is why WHO [World Health Organisation] supported us with a big team of field epidemiologists and surveillance specialists to enhance our capacity for early detection, tracing and management of cases.”

Meanwhile, he said significant work on the PPPR in South Africa has received attention from the highest office seeking to close the gap and to ensure that the country is fully prepared for any future pandemics.

In addition, South Africa in collaboration with the WHO embarked on the process of strengthening the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System (IDSR). 

This move aims to establish a national integrated surveillance system with capacities for forecasting and early detection to reduce morbidity, mortality, disability, and socioeconomic losses due to epidemics, pandemics, and other public health emergencies. 

As part of the recently agreed 15th BRICS 2023 declaration, he said members are ready to institute the BRICS Integrated Early Warning Systems to prevent infectious disease. 

“This is aimed at providing early warnings and effective response measures to prevent any possible local and cross-border spread of infectious diseases and minimise the occurrence of pandemics. 

“This was a principled decision of supporting the country’s existing systems while enhancing a collaborating platform to facilitate sharing of necessary information.”

This includes establishing Public Health Emergency Operation Centres to form part of the Network of BRICS Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs). 

“These will be platforms for supporting BRICS countries in building their public health EOC capacity,” Phaahla explained. 

It will entail communication, information management, mobilisation, coordination, and collaboration with other partners as part of their national emergency response framework. 

On the other hand, the Minister said leaders should continue to support the BRICS Virtual Vaccine Research and Development (R&D) Centre.

“We must recognise the excellent scientific potential existing in our countries and we should utilise it to contribute to the advancement of medical science, improve public health, and foster scientific cooperation among BRICS nations.”

He also stressed the importance of manufacturing, information, and resource sharing among BRICS nations in preparation for any future pandemics. 

“South Africa is in support and in the process of strengthening the guaranteed availability of essential supplies and pharmaceuticals based on its risk profile.”

He said the importance of the pharmaceutical industry was amplified during the global health crises. 

“With the ongoing development of local manufacturing capacity and capabilities, local pharmaceutical companies are set to play a pivotal role in the production and supply of affordable medicines for the domestic market and the rest of Africa.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 08/25/2023 - 09:45

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BRICS women business alliance strategic catalysts for economic development

Location: News

BRICS women business alliance strategic catalysts for economic development

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has described the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance Africa Trade Conference as a resounding success and economically meaningful for women.

The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Women’s Business Alliance Africa Trade Conference was held this week at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC in Durban and brought together over 500 women-led Small Medium Enterprises, from 18 countries, including Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and several other African countries.

The conference saw the signing of several partnership agreements worth billions of rand, which the Premier commended as strategic catalysts for economic development. 

Dube-Ncube said, in the landscape of interconnected economies, multilateral trade and investment play an essential role in forging a path towards inclusive prosperity and a more resilient global economic order.

She said the deals are worth over R48.4 billion and over 120 000 jobs will be created across these projects. 

“This marks a pioneering moment in our shared journey as women,” the Premier said.

Among the strategic partnership agreements that were signed during the conference was the Russia-South Africa Mobility Center on BRICS, with a projected investment value of R47million, which represents a ground-breaking collaboration between the United Immigration Center (Russia) and Africans Do Travel Pty Ltd (South Africa). 

This partnership aims to establish a physical centre in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province, with a central goal of facilitating smooth cross-border mobility for education, work, and tourism. 

“This initiative underscores the significant influence of population mobility in advancing global sustainable development and economic stability,” Dube-Ncube said.

In the sphere of infrastructure, the R1.96 billion Innovation and Building Technologies Centre of Excellence is set to be established through Private Public Partnership between Afuraka IBT Consortium, and Russia's Federal Autonomous Institution "RosKapStroy". 

The centre aims to empower micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the construction sector to foster innovation, knowledge exchange, and skill enhancement for MSMEs, facilitating technologies transfer partnerships while promoting sustainable construction practices and eco-friendly technologies. 

The signing of a Memorandum of Agreement also set on a dynamic agriculture and energy venture between China and South Africa. 

The innovative multidimensional project, valued over R45 billion, seeks to seamlessly integrating marigold plantation and processing facility with an advanced 1GW solar production plant and beef production operation. 

The Premier said the project will be established on a vast 3 000-hectare land parcel.

Regarding the medical and digital economy, a strategic joint venture emerged as the Africa-China AI Medics Platform, uniting Meridian Medical Network Corporation, EtaData, and Human Insights (Pty) Ltd. 

The innovative partnership capitalises on expertise from China and South Africa, harnessing artificial intelligence, big data, and traditional medicine knowledge to shape the future of healthcare. 

Dube-Ncube noted this collaboration aims to revolutionise African traditional medicine by creating a bridge to modern healthcare through the Africa-China AI Medics Platform, fostering economic growth, knowledge exchange, and healthcare accessibility. 

“The project will commence with a pilot phase in South Africa, with an initial investment cost of R281.6 million, before expanding to other countries across the African continent,” the Premier explained.

The conference also witnessed the revolutionary IntelliBiz KZN portal geared towards pulsating business intelligence for economic advancement and progress. 

The Premier said the ground-breaking initiative is led by prominent Chinese tech firm and a leading South African enterprise, aimed at shaping the digital economy. 

“This innovative collaboration aims to provide the KwaZulu-Natal Government with valuable insights into a diverse business community across sectors and an estimated investment of over R846 million over three years, creating 61 600 new jobs. 

“Aligned with KwaZulu-Natal Government's growth agenda, this venture seeks to develop a state-of-the-art KZN Smart business cloud platform that will empower enterprises, entrepreneurs, government entities and other stakeholders through corporate and data resources serving as a catalyst of economic development in KwaZulu-Natal,” Dube-Ncube highlighted.

Building upon this foundation, she said, the goal is to foster robust collaboration between the South African government and society, culminating in the establishment of a harmonious business ecological model that facilitates efficient and collaborative development across government and enterprise sectors.

The conference further witnessed multilateral collaboration between Apollo Hospitals Group, the Health Accelerator and Zayna Africa Holdings. 

Dube-Ncube noted that the Health Precinct initiative holds the potential to transform healthcare standards and spur economic growth across India and South Africa. 

With Apollo Hospitals Group's extensive medical expertise, she said the initiative aims to revolutionise healthcare across Africa, beginning in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Focused on health infrastructure development, medical education, combating various disease burdens, public health initiatives, technological innovation, research, telemedicine, medical tourism, and more, this partnership aims to create comprehensive healthcare solutions. 

“By addressing critical aspects of healthcare delivery and accessibility, from education to technology, this project aspires to enhance healthcare across borders and contribute to global advancements in the field,” Dube-Ncube said.

“In the landscape of interconnected economies, multilateral trade and investment play an essential role in forging a path towards inclusive prosperity and a more resilient global economic order,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 08/25/2023 - 12:03

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Breaking Ground And Stereotypes: Female Visionary Triumphs With Acclaimed Organic Fresh Produce Business

Location: MyPR

In an industry where gender norms have long held sway, one exceptional woman has not only challenged conventions, but also sowed seeds that have yielded the fruits of success and prosperity. At the heart of the agricultural sector is the remarkable story of Gloria Ramahlodi, a visionary female entrepreneur who has thrived in the face …

Read moreBreaking Ground And Stereotypes: Female Visionary Triumphs With Acclaimed Organic Fresh Produce Business

Quiz: Which Chainsaw is Best for You?

Location: MyPR

Looking for the perfect chainsaw that fits your needs? According to Charles Henderson, Business Development Manager at Husqvarna South Africa and a seasoned Tree Professional, the world of chainsaws has come a long way from its traditional roots. It now caters to a wide range of tasks for both homeowners and professionals. “With so many …

Read moreQuiz: Which Chainsaw is Best for You?

Egypt appreciative of BRICS membership

Location: News

Egypt appreciative of BRICS membership

Egypt, the new kid in the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) family has expressed appreciation in becoming a member of the family.

The 15th BRICS Summit held at the Sandton Convention Centre in South Africa under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa announced six new members of the BRICS bloc this morning.

In his remarks, Egypt Prime Minister Dr HE Mostafa Madbouly told delegates that his country will cooperate with the BRICS requirements.

“We welcome the step to be part of the BRICS family. We look forward to contributing to practical solutions,” Madbouly said on Thursday.

Madbouly said they are also looking forward to contributing positively in the areas such as food prices and developing agriculture.

“We look forward to participating positively and enhancing the role of the [New] Development Bank and supporting energy efficiency initiatives,” Madbouly said.

He said Egypt is also willing to support peaceful resolutions in the continent.

The other new members are Argentina, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and are to become full members of BRICS with effect from 1 January 2024.

Egypt submitted in June 2023 a formal application to join the group following the ratification by the Egyptian leader Fattah al-Sisi of the country’s membership in BRICS’s New Development Bank (NDB).

Russia backed Egypt’s membership application to join the BRICS.

South Africa, as Chair of BRICS, hosted the XV BRICS Summit under the theme: BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism.

In his remarks this morning, President Cyril Ramaphosa said as the BRICS family they value the interest of other countries in building a partnership with BRICS.

He said the admission of new members to the BRICS family is the first phase of the group’s expansion process.

“We have tasked our Foreign Ministers to further develop the BRICS partner country model and a list of prospective partner countries and report by the next Summit,” President Ramaphosa said.

South Africa’s participation in BRICS is premised on its national interests in line with the National Development Plan and the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) 2019 – 2024 Priority 7.

During the summit which concludes today, BRICS leaders engaged with business during the BRICS Business Forum and engaged with the NDB, BRICS Business Council and other mechanisms during the Summit.

The BRICS partnership has grown in scope and depth with BRICS members exploring practical cooperation in a spirit of openness and solidarity to find mutual interests and common values. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 18:17

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A Record 1,490 Fintechs entered the Ecobank Fintech Challenge 2023 with Eight (8) reaching the Final

Location: News

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated
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Eight finalists emerged from an impressive pool of 1,490 Fintechs drawn from 64 countries in and beyond Africa; the Grand Finale will take place on 6 October at the Ecobank Group Pan African Centre (www.Ecobank.com) in Lomé, Togo; all finalists will be admitted into the Ecobank Fintech Fellowship Programme; the overall winner of the Ecobank Fintech Challenge will receive a cash prize of US$50,000, in addition to being admitted into the Fellowship Programme.

Over 1,400 Fintech startups from 64 countries across Africa and beyond applied for this year's Ecobank Fintech Challenge with eight of them making the cut to the final where they will compete for the ultimate prize. This is the sixth edition of this international competition, with the highest number of applications on record.

Ecobank Group, Africa's leading pan-African banking group, said this year's applications had more than doubled compared to last year's 703 applications received from 59 countries. In 2022 Nigeria's fintech startup, ‘Touch and Pay', wowed the jury with their ‘Cowry App' to win the top prize of US$50,000.

The eight finalists who emerged from the fiercely competitive pool will compete for the coveted top prize of US$50,000 at the Grand Finale, which is scheduled to take place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lomé, Togo, on 6 October 2023.

The 2023 Ecobank Fintech Challenge finalists in alphabetical order are:

  • Flexpay Technologies (Kenya) – FlexPay offers customers a merchant-embedded saving-based purchase experience called Save Now, Buy Later.
  • IPOXCap AI (South Africa) - FinanceGPT is a financial analysis platform for frontier markets. It processes structured and unstructured financial data to generate actionable insights, using advanced algorithms for financial forecasting, health monitoring and valuation.
  • Kastelo (South Africa) - Provides a democratised solution through diversified products, focusing on transaction, savings and forex offerings, aimed at banking the underbanked in emerging markets through client-centric solutions.
  • Koree (Cameroon) - Koree is a card wallet application that addresses sub-Saharan Francophone Africa spare change scarcity by digitising cash merchant payments, while empowering millions of African consumers through an incentive reward system.
  • Kori Tech (Senegal) – Koripass is an E-wallet linked to physical payment accessories such as
    bracelets, stickers and keychains. It enables quick and easy merchant payments
    using NFC and QR Code technology. No internet or smartphone required.
  • Smart Teller Technologies Limited (Nigeria) - Empowering cooperative digital banking, IT services, and online bill payments for seamless services.
  • Rubyx (Belgium and Senegal) - Rubyx enables digital lending solutions for service providers in emerging markets to bridge the financing gap that faces informal entrepreneurs and small businesses to fund their activities.
  • Wolf Technologies (Democratic Republic of Congo) - Makuta is a state-of-the-art application that provides a simple, convenient and secure electronic money transfer and payment experience.

Ecobank Group Chief Executive Officer, Jeremy Awori, who will be hosting the Fintech Challenge final for the first time said: “We are encouraged by the very high number of applications received for the sixth edition of our Ecobank Fintech Challenge. The significant increase in the number of participants reflects the growing impact of our investments in the fintech space, and on our operations and fintech initiatives across Africa. The finalists went through a rigorous process, and we look forward to the pitches of the eight competitors vying for the top prize and ultimately partnering with the Ecobank Group.”

On his part, Dr. Tomisin Fashina, Ecobank Group Executive, Operations and Technology, congratulated the eight finalists of the 2023 Ecobank Fintech Challenge and said, “We are proud to support the development of fintechs to drive digital banking transformation across Africa and beyond. The ever-increasing level of participation - from just 412 applications in 2018 to 1,490 submissions this year - reflects the richness of the untapped innovation and talent that exists across our continent.”

As in previous editions, all the finalists in the 6th edition will be inducted into the Ecobank Fintech Fellowship Programme which offers:

  • Product roll-out on a pan-African scale: Providing the opportunity to explore product and business integration with Ecobank and potentially launch products or services in all or part of Ecobank's 35-country pan-African ecosystem.
  • Access to Ecobank's pan-African Banking Sandbox: Opportunity to test and develop products in the pan-African market.
  • Priority access to Ecobank's venture capital partners: Opportunity for access to funding.

The Ecobank Fintech Challenge recognises and promotes groundbreaking African fintech start-ups. The initiative is consistent with Ecobank's Fintech strategy of building partnerships with African fintechs to help transform digital finance and banking.

The 2023 edition of the Ecobank Fintech Challenge is co-sponsored by Huawei, Arise Invest, Asky Airlines and Proparco, and supported by ALX Africa, , ABAN Angels, Africa Fintech Network, MEST Africa, Bluespace, Naija Startups, Jeune Afrique, TechCabal and Konfidants.

For more information on the competition, please visit https://EcobankFintechChallenge.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated.

Media Contact:
Christiane Bossom
Group Communications Manager
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated
Email: groupcorporatecomms@ecobank.com
Tel: +228 22 21 03 03
Website: www.Ecobank.com

About Ecobank Group (or ‘Ecobank Transnational Incorporated' or ‘ETI'):
Ecobank Group is the leading private pan-African banking group with unrivalled African expertise. Present in 35 sub-Saharan African countries, as well as France, the UK, UAE and China, its unique pan-African platform provides a single gateway for payments, cash management, trade and investment. The Group employs over 14,000 people and offers Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking products, services and solutions across multiple channels, including digital, to over 32 million customers. For further information, please visit Ecobank.com.

Read moreA Record 1,490 Fintechs entered the Ecobank Fintech Challenge 2023 with Eight (8) reaching the Final

Mukuru appoints UFC Fighter Themba Gorimbo as Brand Ambassador

Location: News
Mukuru

Mukuru (https://www.Mukuru.com), a leading next-generation financial services provider for Africa's emerging consumers, has appointed Zimbabwe-born MMA fighter Themba Gorimbo as its newest brand ambassador to highlight its commitment to supporting top African talent and making a difference in communities across the continent.

Like many youths in Africa, Gorimbo, now a successful welterweight UFC fighter hailing from a rural area called Muvuti in the Bikita District in Zimbabwe, had a rough start in life with the loss of both his parents at an early age. He made his way to South Africa and, while working as a gardener in Cape Town, he joined a local gym which was the start of setting him on a new trajectory.

“I believe God had a role to play in how my life thankfully changed for the better. You could almost say the tribulations of my past have played a big role in giving me the mental strength to achieve what I have so far,” says Gorimbo.

Gorimbo expresses his gratitude for the newfound chapter in his life, one that intertwines with a reputable organisation such as Mukuru. A business deeply rooted in serving its customers, Mukuru has partnered with Gorimbo on his journey of progress as he continues to positively contribute to the well-being of his community. He says that the partnership between him and Mukuru is nothing short of a blessing, as the company's unwavering support continues to provide him with the platform to fulfill his dreams of giving back to his community as he soldiers towards success.

Gorimbo joins rugby legend Tendai ‘Beast' Mtawarira and the Malawian soccer team, The Mighty Mukuru Wanderers, as ambassadors for the brand.

“The decision to partner with Themba as our brand ambassador for Mukuru was easy given that he is the epitome of what a Mukuru customer represents,” says Cindy Klassen, Head of Marketing at Mukuru. Our customers are resilient, they too have journeyed from their homes, some under tough situations, others in search of greater opportunity, but all with the same belief that they will be paving the way for future generations to be beacons of hope and models of success. Gorimbo often says he will become a champion, but to us and the people of Africa, he is one already.”

Gorimbo installed a borehole in his village from the proceeds he received selling his fight kit after his first UFC victory in Las Vegas earlier this year. “As part of the brand partnership, we wanted to match Gorimbo's magnanimous energy, because as a brand we too invest in the communities that we serve, so we partnered with him and donated another borehole to provide clean water and support his community in Bikita District,” says Klassen.

We look forward to collaborating on various brand campaigns in the coming months and hopefully inspire and support more people across Africa in the same way Gorimbo and our customers inspire us,” concludes Klassen.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mukuru.

About Mukuru:
Mukuru is a leading next generation financial services platform in Southern Africa that offers affordable and reliable financial services to a customer base of over 13 million across Africa, Asia, and Europe.

With over 100 million transactions to date, our core was built providing international money transfers and from this base, we've developed a set of services to address the broader financial needs of our customers. We now operate in over 50 countries and across over 300 remittance corridors.

We are a business that puts the customer at the centre of everything we do, and for that reason, we serve clients across physical and digital channels, by various payment methods (cash, card, wallet) as well as a range of engagement platforms including WhatsApp, USSD, contact centre, App, website, agents and a branch and booth network.

Mukuru has, for the fourth consecutive year, been listed as one of the top 100 Cross Border Payments businesses in the world in the 2023 FXC Intelligence Top 100 Cross-Border Payment Companies (https://apo-opa.info/3KW0wwh), one of only six African companies to receive this accolade.

In April 2023, Mukuru officially ranked sixth on the 2023 LinkedIn Top Companies List in South Africa.

Further information can be found at https://www.Mukuru.com.

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BRICS adopts Johannesburg II Declaration

Location: News

BRICS adopts Johannesburg II Declaration

The 15th BRICS Summit has successfully adopted the Johannesburg II Declaration, a document that encapsulates significant BRICS viewpoints on matters of global economic, financial and political significance.

This was announced by the Chair of BRICS President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday during a media briefing to announce the outcomes of the XV BRICS Summit. 

“We adopted the Johannesburg II Declaration which reflects key BRICS messages on matters of global economic, financial and political importance. It demonstrates the shared values and common interests that underlie our mutually beneficial cooperation as the five BRICS countries.

“BRICS itself is a diverse group of nations. It is an equal partnership of countries that have differing views but have a shared vision for a better world,” the President said. 

The leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa met in Sandton, Johannesburg, from 22 to 24 August 2023 for the XV BRICS Summit.

The Summit was held under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism".

This is the first BRICS Summit to be hosted in-person since the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global travel restrictions. 

The BRICS leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to the BRICS spirit of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, strengthened collaboration and consensus. 

As the bloc builds upon 15 years of BRICS Summits, it further committed to strengthening the framework of mutually beneficial BRICS cooperation under the three pillars of political and security, economic and financial, and cultural and people-to-people cooperation.

Partnership for Inclusive Multilateralism

The bloc has also committed to enhance its strategic partnership for the benefit of its people through the promotion of peace, a more representative, fairer international order, a reinvigorated and reformed multilateral system, sustainable development and inclusive growth.

“We reiterate our commitment to inclusive multilateralism and upholding international law, including the purposes and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations (UN) as its indispensable cornerstone,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The BRICS leaders expressed their concern about the use of unilateral coercive measures, which are incompatible with the principles of the Charter of the UN and produce negative effects notably in the developing world.

“We reiterate our commitment to enhancing and improving global governance by promoting a more agile, effective, efficient, representative, democratic and accountable international and multilateral system.

“We call for greater representation of emerging markets and developing countries, in international organizations and multilateral fora in which they play an important role. We also call for increasing the role and share of women from EMDCs at different levels of responsibilities in the international organizations,” the Declaration read. 

Local currencies

The BRICS leaders emphasised that they are ready to explore opportunities for improving the stability, reliability and fairness of the global financial architecture.

In the declaration, the leaders said they recognise the widespread benefits of fast, inexpensive, transparent, safe, and inclusive payment systems.

Therefore the Summit agreed to task the BRICS Finance Ministers and/or Central Bank Governors, as appropriate, to consider the issue of local currencies, payment instruments and platforms and report back to the BRICS leaders by the next Summit.

“We look forward to the report by the BRICS Payment Task Force (BPTF) on the mapping of the various elements of the G20 Roadmap on Crossborder Payments in BRICS countries. We welcome the sharing of experience by BRICS members on payment infrastructures, including the interlinking of cross-border payment systems.

“We also encourage strengthening of correspondent banking networks between the BRICS countries and enabling settlements in the local currencies. We task our Finance Ministers and/or Central Bank Governors, as appropriate, to consider the issue of local currencies, payment instruments and platforms,” the leaders said. 

New Development Bank (NDB)

The summit further recognised the key role of the New Development Bank (NDB) in promoting infrastructure and sustainable development of its member countries. 

The Summit congratulated Dilma Rousseff, former President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, as President of the New Development Bank (NDB) and are confident that she will contribute to the strengthening of the NDB in effectively achieving its mandate.

“We expect the NDB to provide and maintain the most effective financing solutions for sustainable development, a steady process in membership expansion, and improvements in corporate governance and operational effectiveness towards the fulfilment of NDB's General Strategy for 2022-2026,” the leaders said. 

The leaders further welcomed the work of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance in their first in-person engagement with leaders, particularly welcoming the participation of youth representatives in the Summit.

They further addressed expectations for the BRICS economic partnership to generate tangible benefits for communities and deliver viable solutions for common challenges faced by the global South. 

The Summit further reaffirmed the importance of BRICS people-to-people exchanges in enhancing mutual understanding, friendship and cooperation.

Brazil, Russia, India and China commend South Africa's BRICS Chairship in 2023 and expressed their gratitude to the government and people of South Africa for holding the XV BRICS Summit. 

The bloc further extended its full support to Russia for its BRICS Chairship in 2024 and the holding of the XVI BRICS Summit in the city of Kazan, Russia. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 12:39

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BRICS well positioned to create equitable world order

Location: News

BRICS well positioned to create equitable world order

President Cyril Ramaphosa has used the occasion of the 15th BRICS Summit Open Plenary to reiterate the bloc’s commitment to the principles of solidarity, sustainable development and an equitable world order.

Joined by his counterparts from the grouping’s member countries – the President of Brazil Lula Da Silva; Russian President Vladimir Putin; Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the People's Republic of China President, Xi Jinping – President Ramaphosa said the BRICS partnership must be harnessed to drive inclusive global economic recovery.

The South African Statesman said it remains a matter of concern that global financial and payment systems are “increasingly being used as instruments of geopolitical contestation”.

“Global economic recovery relies on predictable global payment systems and the smooth operation of banking, supply chains, trade, tourism and financial flows.

“We will continue discussions on practical measures to facilitate trade and investment flows through the increased use of local currencies,” President Ramaphosa said on the second day of the summit.

President Ramaphosa also said the bloc was "'deeply concerned about conflicts across the world that continue to cause great suffering and hardship".

“As South Africa, our position remains that diplomacy, dialogue, negotiation and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter are necessary for the peaceful and just resolution of conflicts.

With the BRICS partnership straddling four continents and five countries that are home to almost three and a half billion people, President Ramaphosa said the bloc has, over the years, been a major driver of global growth, trade and investment.

It is for this reason, the President said, that the agenda of peace and stability ought to be supported, as it is the precondition for a better and more equitable world.

“The world is changing. New economic, political, social and technological realities call for greater cooperation between nations.

“These realities call for a fundamental reform of the institutions of global governance so that they may be more representative and better able to respond to the challenges that confront humanity,” the President said.

This year’s edition of the BRICS Summit is a significant one, not only because it is the first to be hosted in person since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global restrictions, but because of the interest is has attracted from other countries, with over 20 countries having applied to join the bloc of developing nations.

President Ramaphosa said while BRICS is firmly committed to advancing the interests of the Global South, BRICS stands ready to collaborate with all countries that aspire to create a more inclusive international order.

“BRICS stands for solidarity and for progress. It stands for inclusivity and a more just, equitable world order. It stands for sustainable development.

“We are an inclusive formation of developing and emerging economies that are working together to benefit from our rich histories, cultures and systems to advance common prosperity. We do so because we know that poverty, inequality and underdevelopment are the biggest challenges facing humankind.”

Advancing the African agenda

The theme for this year’s summit – ‘BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism’ – is testament to the group’s realisation that Africa is pivotal to the world’s sustained development, something that President Ramaphosa says is a strategic priority for South Africa during its chairship of BRICS.

The President has welcomed the ongoing engagement of BRICS countries with Africa in the spirit of partnership and mutual respect.

The objectives of reciprocal trade and investment, he said, are some of the pillars in building an Africa that is able to compete on an equal footing in the global economy.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area, once fully operational, will unlock the benefits of the continental market and generate mutually beneficial opportunities for both African and BRICS countries,” President Ramaphosa said.

As the world grapples with climate change, the President said it has become crucial to ensure that the transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient future is just, fair and takes into account differing national circumstances.

In line with this objective, BRICS nations need to advance the interests of the Global South and  call for industrialised countries to honour their commitments to support climate actions by developing economy countries.

President Ramaphosa expressed his full confidence that the 15th BRICS Summit will advance the cause of common prosperity and progress.

“We are confident that this 15th BRICS Summit will enrich and inspire our work towards the achievement of a more humane global community,” he said.

The summit, which will wrap up on Thursday, has already seen the hosting of the BRICS Business Council and the signing of a joint memorandum of cooperation, which will see China helping South Africa to power critical institutions as the country continues to work on a plan to deal conclusively with load shedding. - SAnews.gov.za 

Edwin
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 13:18

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Read moreBRICS well positioned to create equitable world order

Efforts underway to up economic growth in the Free State

Location: MyPR

The government entity tasked with promoting productivity and job creation in South Africa, Productivity SA, in partnership with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), will host a workshop aimed at improving the productivity of businesses in the Free State. The Honorable MEC, of the Free State Department: Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism …

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FM Solutions Promotes Efficient Operations And Community Empowerment

Location: MyPR

FM Solutions, one of South Africa’s leading facility management companies, highlights the critical role of facilities management in driving efficient operations, cost savings, and safe workplaces. With a strong commitment to empowering the local community through effective supplier development, FM Solutions has emerged as a trusted partner in maintaining and enhancing infrastructure across various industries. …

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Real Estate: A Frontier of Opportunity for Women

Location: MyPR

Looking for a career change? This Women’s Month, nine female owners of real estate franchises tell us what they love about the property industry and the opportunities it offers women. As these nine business owners can attest, transitioning from various fields, whether it be secretarial work, finance, architectural design, other sales fields, or even bartending, …

Read moreReal Estate: A Frontier of Opportunity for Women

The house of BRICS may be expanding

Location: News

The house of BRICS may be expanding

A decision on the much-speculated possible expansion of the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) group of countries is imminent.

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was making remarks during the 15th BRICS Summit currently underway at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

“We stand at the cusp of expanding the BRICS family because it is through this expansion that we will be able to have a much stronger BRICS in these turbulent times that we live in. We await the decision that will be taken by the BRICS leaders in this regard, in due course, as we go on with our Summit.

“We stand at another momentous moment. This is a matter that we are discussing and hopefully we will find a clear solution to this matter as we discuss it among ourselves as BRICS leaders,” President Ramaphosa said.

In its current iteration, the group includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa and reports have suggested that in excess of 20 countries – mainly from the global south – have registered their interest in joining the group.

Any announced expansion of the BRICS group is expected to propel the group towards increased global influence in world relations as it already represents more than 40% of the world’s population (at least 3 billion people) and some 31% of the global GDP.

Delivering his remarks, Chinese President Xi Jinping – a known proponent of the expansion – said the process to bring more countries under the BRICS umbrella must be “accelerated”.

“I am glad to see the growing enthusiasm of developing countries about participating in BRICS cooperation and quite a number of them have applied to join the BRICS cooperation mechanism.

“We need to make good use of the BRICS plus cooperation format and accelerate the BRICS expansion process to bring more countries into the BRICS family so as to pool our strength, pool our wisdom to make global governance more just and equitable,” he said.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his country endorses bringing more countries into the fold.

“India fully supports the expansion of BRICS membership and we welcome moving forward on this based on consensus.

“In 2016 during India’s [BRICS] presidency, we had defined BRICS as a group building responsive, collective and inclusive solutions. Seven years later, we can say that BRICS will be breaking barriers, revitalising economies, inspiring innovation, creating opportunities and shaping the future,” he said.

Russia President, Vladimir Putin, who addressed the Summit via video link, said when that country takes the lead of the group next year, any decision taken in this regard will be supported.

“During our chairmanship [of the BRICS group in 2024], we would like to do our utmost to efficiently facilitate the implementation of decisions adopted at this summit including with regard to the expansion of BRICS.”

At the BRICS Business Council on Tuesday evening, Brazil President Lula da Silva hinted that growth of the group will only enhance its relevance.

“BRICS has a unique chance of shaping the global development path. Together, our countries make up a third of the global economy. This relevance will grow with the admission of new full members and dialogue partners. Collaboration between the public and private sector is vital for harnessing this potential and achieving lasting results,” President da Silva said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 15:10

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Is Your Web Site on THIS List?

Location: MyPR

Today we had a look at our MyPR.co.za web site statistics for the month to date of August 2023. We have deployed our own hosted stats software and have been closely watching and comparing these stats – with Google Ananlytics and our global Server Statistics programmes – in order to check the veracity of the …

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Young people call for establishment of BRICS Youth Council

Location: News

Young people call for establishment of BRICS Youth Council

Making their voices heard at the 15th BRICS Summit, young people across the member states have called for the establishment of a BRICS Youth Council.

Addressing the summit currently underway in Johannesburg on Wednesday, National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Chairperson Asanda Luwaca said the recent 9th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India China, and South Africa) Youth Summit reached a consensus on the establishment of a Youth Council.

“This will allow us to ensure deeper and stronger collaborations among young people. We thus implore that this summit endorse our proposal for the establishment for the BRICS Youth Council in its final declaration in ensuring that new pathways for positive change and innovation can be realised.

“In doing so, it will further ensure that no young person among the BRICS member states gets left behind. Young people in their collective believe that youth are the present and the future. Our interaction as BRICS member states cannot and should not be limited to an annual summit,” Luwaca said.

Taking place under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism”, the summit is being attended by the leaders of Brazil, India, China, as well as South Africa, as the host.

Noting that young people make up the larger proportion of the population of each of the BRICS countries, Luwaca emphasised that the voices and views of the youth are critical as nations forge a post-pandemic society at the highest making forums.

“We believe that the BRICS countries in general and youth in particular should use their collective strengths to prioritise the development paradigm, using as a guiding principle for our work as we continue the intra BRICS cooperation across areas such as trade, education, skills development and training, economic participation and transformation, health and well-being and social cohesion.

“At our 9th Youth Summit, we presented the draft framework for the establishment of a BRICS Youth Council, which will become the coordination body for youth development between BRICS member countries and will join formations such as the BRICS Business Council, BRICS Women’s Alliance and the new Development Bank,” she said.

Last month, the NYDA hosted the 9th BRICS Youth Summit and the Meeting of Ministers responsible for Youth Affairs, under the theme: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism”.

The BRICS Youth Summit is a platform for dialogue for delegates from member states, striving for the promotion of peace, security, development in a multi-polar inter-dependent and increasingly complex, globalizing world.

The objectives of the summit are to bring together youth participants, affording them an opportunity to share ideas and work on a concrete Action Plan for co-operation in economic, humanitarian, mass media, and science sphere.

This year, South Africa as the head of BRICS directed the summit to focus on discussions that aim to encourage young leaders among BRICS nations to actively participate in addressing the most significant global challenges, economic, social issues, and contribute to the developmental agenda. 

It further called for a focus on constructive engagements on issues relating to youth empowerment, the advancement of youth development and in creating a conducive environment where youth will devise a path to a brighter and better future.

The Youth Summit preceded the BRICS Ministers responsible for Youth Affairs meeting, which was attended by the Youth Ministers; Heads of Executive Authorities for Youth; Senior Government Officials; and youth.

The outcomes of the BRICS Youth Summit will be presented to the Ministers’ Meeting for decision-making and adoption of the presentations and resolutions made by delegates from the summit. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 12:11

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Read moreYoung people call for establishment of BRICS Youth Council

Rugby World Cup Organizing Committee Welcomes Rugby Africa President to Paris

Location: Sport
Rugby AfricaToday, during his official visit to France, Herbert Mensah, the new President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, held a meeting with Julien Collette, General Manager of the 2023 Rugby World Cup Organizing Committee to discuss Africa's participation to the Rugby World Cup. The meeting took place at the iconic France 2023 Headquarters, La Maison de la Mutualité, located in the heart of Paris.

Copyright-free video B-roll, video and audio interviews in English and French, images, and audio files are available for the media to download and can be freely used without requiring authorization: https://apo-opa.info/3E76AhD  

At the forefront of Africa's participation in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, stand South Africa and Namibia, proudly representing the continent. The presence of these nations exemplifies the continent's growing influence on the global rugby stage. Notably, South Africa's current global champion status and its third-time world champion title are a testament to Africa's exceptional skill, determination, and commitment to rugby.

Africa's population is anticipated to double, reaching a staggering 2.5 billion by 2050, and according to the United Nations, the African youth will constitute 42% of the world's population by 2030. This demographic shift carries tremendous potential for the Rugby World Cup viewership growth, as a larger population naturally translates into a larger potential audience.

To seize this extraordinary potential, it is imperative for World Rugby, the governing body of the rugby and the owner of the Rugby World Cup, to invest significantly in Africa, much like other prominent sports organizations such as FIFA for football, NBA for basketball, and even NFL for American football. By strategically tapping into the growing interest and population of Africa, World Rugby can not only boost the viewership of the Rugby World Cup but also foster a lasting passion for rugby within the continent, contributing to the sport's global expansion and long-term success.

“We are very glad to welcome here in Paris, the new President of Rugby Africa. We think that the next Rugby World Cup in France would be a very great opportunity for promoting rugby everywhere in the world, and particularly in Africa,” said the General Manager of the 2023 Rugby World Cup Organizing Committee, Julien Collette.

“A diverse range of African stakeholders, including our community members, esteemed dignitaries, and strategic investment partners, are eager to enhance their involvement in future editions of the Rugby World Cup. This collective enthusiasm is rooted in the understanding that sports, rugby included, offer substantial economic prospects. Recognizing the significant financial potential within the sports industry, there exists a shared ambition to not only participate in upcoming Rugby World Cup events but also to explore opportunities for business expansion and mutual benefits,” stated the recently elected President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah.

The 2023 Rugby World Cup will be the tenth men's Rugby World Cup, the quadrennial world championship for rugby union national teams. It is scheduled to take place in France from 8 September to 28 October 2023 in nine venues across the country.

The Rugby World Cup 2023 Fixtures is available at: https://apo-opa.info/3qxNy0Y

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent.

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Innovation key to thriving in a changing world, says Minister Patel

Location: News

Innovation key to thriving in a changing world, says Minister Patel

Business as usual is no longer an option, and the ability to innovate and adapt in a world characterised by volatility and fractiousness is the key to thriving, says Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel.

"Today, the world is more polarised, climate change is more pressing and the speed of technological innovation is increasing rapidly.

“These trends in turn are reshaping our economies and societies in more profound ways than many could project," Patel said on Tuesday.

The Minister officially opened the BRICS Business Forum as South Africa hosts the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India and China at the 15th BRICS Summit.

The event, which kicked off on Tuesday, will wrap up on Thursday. The summit brings together 1 200 delegates from South Africa, Brazil, Russia, India, China, and several African nations.

Patel used the platform to draw attention to the collective economic might of the BRICS nations, which together account for over a quarter of the world's economic output.

Highlighting South Africa's remarkable achievements in exports, Patel acknowledged the large contingent of exporting firms, noting that South Africa exported goods worth R2 trillion last year, constituting nearly one third of the nation's gross domestic product.

He praised the establishment of significant institutions like the New Development Bank, emphasising the importance of networks for policy exchanges and knowledge-sharing.

He underscored the BRICS countries’ commitment to a worldview founded on the right to develop independently without relying on others.

Acknowledging the transformative power of industrialisation, trade and technological development, Patel hailed the African Continental Free Trade Area, which unites 54 nations and offers a platform to spur African industrialisation and innovation.

He stressed that Africa is no longer just a raw material supplier but an “emerging force of innovation and industrialisation in the global arena”.

He called on the BRICS Business Forum to explore how companies and firms in BRICS economies can grow and prosper through collaboration and partnership.

He urged investment and trade practices that support the industrialisation and welfare enhancement of developing nations.

This forum meeting, Patel said, provides the framework for forging valuable business-to-business partnerships and contributing to the world's shared prosperity.

Notable figures such as Dilma Rousseff, the President of the New Development Bank; Fernando Haddad, the Minister of Finance of Brazil; Mozambican Industry and Commerce Minister Silvino Augusto José Moreno, and the leaders of the respective BRICS Business Council Chapters attended the meeting. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 09:43

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Read moreInnovation key to thriving in a changing world, says Minister Patel

Tiger Brands expands its footprint in booming South African informal sector, creates ‘Perfect Outlets’

Location: MyPR

Tiger Brands expands its footprint in booming South African informal sector, creates ‘Perfect Outlets’ Tiger Brands is expanding its presence in the local general trade to capture significant growth opportunities identified in the informal sector of the economy, by implementing robust Route-to-Market support and solutions for its general trade customers, including spazas and midi-wholesalers. The …

Read moreTiger Brands expands its footprint in booming South African informal sector, creates ‘Perfect Outlets’